Characterizing red light runners following implementation of a photo enforcement program

Red light running causes about 260,000 crashes and 750 fatalities each year in the US (Retting, Ulmer, & Williams, 1999, Accident Analysis & Prevention). This study investigated the effects of photo enforcement cameras on reducing red light running and characterized the typical red light runner throughout photo enforcement program implementation. In Southeast Virginia, eight intersections were observed over an 8-month period during which photo enforcement cameras were installed at three sites. To assess spillover effects, three other sites served in a same city comparison group. Two additional sites from a nearby city served in a control group for city. Over 1750 light cycles were observed with red light running occurring at least once during 13% of these cycles. Predictors of red light runners included being at a site without a camera or at an intersection before deployment of cameras, being under the age of 26, being in the non-camera city, not using a safety belt, and driving in more traffic. While overall red light running decreased at camera sites, characteristics of the typical red light runner remained the same at camera and non-camera locations.